FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.50- Review!

I was among the very lucky beauty bloggers to receive FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 to review, and I was thrilled to be included for several reasons. First, I love using retinol-based products; Second, fellow beauty blogger, Nicki Zevola, from FutureDerm is the creative genius behind this fantastic product; and third I was in the market for a new retinol because I had just finished up a bottle. I have used retinol at night for a long time, and I was thrilled to try this one because I had heard so many wonderful things about it. In fact, I ended up loving FutureDerm Retinol so much that I specifically mentioned it when I was interviewed by Kelsie Blazier for REDBOOK Magazine here. (For an overview to my interview, click here).

FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 is a lightweight gel formula with microencapsulated 0.5% retinol. FutureDerm argues that their 0.5% formula "is clinically proven by research studies to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by 30% within the first two weeks of use. Retinol works largely by increasing cellular turnover and downgrading matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that degrade collagen)."

According to FutureDerm, their Time-Release Retinol 0.5:

• Is micro encapsulated and time-released for maximum effectiveness
• Contains 0.5% Retinol, the proven most effective concentration 
• Fights fine lines and wrinkles
• Smooths mottled or rough skin
• Aids mild to moderate acne
• Alleviates the appearance of age spots 
• Maintains and build skin firmness
• Has an optimized efficacy and stability based on independent and scientific studies

A concentrated retinol formula, FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 contains 0.5% microencapsulated retinol in a lightweight gel formula that is perfect for use together with your other favorite moisturizers.  Most retinoid creams are thicker, taking up to 30 minutes to fully absorb into the skin.  Ours absorbs in under a second, so you don’t have to wait before applying other moisturizers. FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 is designed to optimize the retinol activation process within the skin.  Retinol must be converted to isotretinoin by enzymes called retinyl ester hydrolases in order to become active within the skin.  Our formulation is designed to increase the efficiency of this process with an optimized delivery system and conditions. Our retinol is also microencapsulated, targeting retinoid receptors in the skin for a full eight hours.  This makes FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 ideal for nighttime use.

How to Use: For best results, FutureDerm suggests that you apply a pea-sized amount to thoroughly cleansed skin the evening.  As with most retinol products, it is important to carefully avoid contact with the delicate eye area. "If you have never used microencapsulated retinol products before, there may be a transitional period.  Begin by limiting use to two times per week, and then gradually increase frequency to every other night, and finally once an evening as tolerated.  As with many products, best results can be achieved under the supervision of a health care professional."

My experience with FutureDerm Retinol 0.5: First of all, I must preface my assessment by stating that my skin was already quite acclimated to the use of retinol at night at the time that I began using FutureDerm Retinol 0.5. I have used retinol for a long time, therefore I cannot determine how my skin would have reacted to the FutureDerm Retinol had I made the transition from no retinol based night treatments to this one. My experience instead was from the point of view of switching from one retinol product to another. I had a good idea of what I might expect, and I didn't expect to experience any visible peeling, redness, or irritation that commonly accompanies the use of such products- particularly at the beginning. What I didn't expect were changes for the better-I expected more of a stasis. However,  my skin texture actually improved while using FutureDerm! I was using a higher percentage retinol (1%) prior to FutureDerm, and yet my skin looks better after using FutureDerm! It has a pronounced clarity and evenness of tone, hyperpigmented areas from sun damage look better, fine lines are softened, and the texture is even more smooth. Therefore, you can imagine my amazement and elation when my skin actually looked better than before! Retinol is great for keeping acne and wrinkles/fine lines in check, and is probably about as close as one can get to the ever sought after fountain of youth- making it a favorite among dermatologists and enthusiasts alike.

This formula is very gentle and does not dry out or dehydrate my skin in the least bit. That said, as previously noted my skin is accustomed to retinol, and you may experience some drying and flaking as often occurs when retinol begins working its magic. I apply it at night  to freshly cleansed skin and then use a face oil or a face cream over it, and that's it. When I wake up the following morning my skin looks fresh, smooth, and radiant. As with all retinol based products, they have a tendency to cause photosensitivity. Therefore, it is imperative to use a sunscreen when you add retinol based treatments into your skincare ritual. I never leave the house without an SPF 40 all over my face, neck and any other exposed areas. I also would not use this in conjunction with other AHAs, Fruit Acids. Lactic Acids etc. In is inadvisable to overwork or over-process the skin as it can lead to thinning and a plethora of problems. When I use this at night I am careful not to use any other peeling or heavy exfoliating agents because this is plenty effective by itself.

Ingredients: 0.5% Retinol, Aqua, Glycerin (hydrator), Alcohol (thins the solution), Octyldodecanol (emulsifier), Butylene Glycol (thins the solution), cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone (emulsifier), Allyl  Metacrylates Crosspolymer (film-forming agent), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Salix Alba Bark Extract (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (anti-inflammatory), BHT (antioxidant), Tocopherol (antioxidant), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (emollient), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (thickening agent), Triethanolamine (pH adjuster), Propylene Glycol (thins the solution), Diazolidinyl Urea (antimicrobial preservative), Propylparaben (antimicrobial preservative), Methylparaben (antimicrobial preservative).

FutureDerm maintains very high standards of safety: "This product is tested for safety and efficacy and physician-approved. The ingredients used are deemed to be safe and highly efficacious in the concentrations they are used in this product, even with typical repeated use over time. As with any product, please use for external use only. Keep out of reach of children.  Avoid contact with eyes.  Discontinue for a week before hair removal waxing. Do not use if undergoing a skin peeling regimen.  Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing. Please use with a broad-spectrum sunscreen."

Overall assessment: This is a really excellent retinol, and it beats anything that I have tried to date, and at a fraction of the price.  I highly recommend FutureDerm Retinol if you are in the market for a retinol based product. That said, retinol based products are not for everyone and it isn't a bad idea to consult with your physician before adding retinol into your routine. Additionally, people with very sensitive skin often cannot tolerate retinol products, and should once again consult with a physician or dermatologist before using retinol. FutureDerm is Cruelty Free!

1 oz. $54.95 from FutureDerm and Amazon.
PR sample sent for consideration, but all views expressed are categorically my own.